🧄🌿 Herbed Focaccia with Garlic Butter
📝 Description:
This herbed focaccia is a soft, pillowy, golden-crusted bread infused with the rich flavors of garlic, rosemary, and thyme. A generous brushing of garlic butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevate this classic Italian bread into an irresistible, aromatic delight. Perfect as a side, sandwich base, or appetizer!
🍽️ Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water (not too hot—about 110°F or 43°C)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus extra for greasing and drizzling)
For the Topping:
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
🥣 Instructions:
- Activate Yeast (if needed): In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy (optional for instant yeast but good for verifying activity).
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead for 5–7 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours or until doubled.
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan or baking sheet with olive oil. Transfer dough and press it into the pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Make indentations in the dough using your fingers. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped herbs and sea salt.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
- While warm, brush generously with melted garlic butter. Slice and serve warm!
🧠 Notes:
- For crispier edges, bake in a cast iron pan or heavy-bottomed baking tray.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried—use 1 tsp each instead.
- Can be made a day ahead; reheat in the oven to refresh texture.
💡 Tips:
- Add toppings like caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for variation.
- Ensure dough rises in a warm, draft-free space for best texture.
- Don’t skip the second rise—it’s key for fluffiness.
- For garlic lovers, infuse the butter longer or roast the garlic first.
👨👩👧 Servings:
Makes about 12 squares
Serves 6–8 people as a side or snack
⚖️ Nutritional Information (Per Piece):
Approximate values (based on 12 pieces):
- Calories: ~220
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 28 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 200–250 mg
🌿 Benefits:
- Made with heart-healthy olive oil
- Garlic and herbs offer antimicrobial and antioxidant properties
- More wholesome than store-bought breads with preservatives
- Great base for creative toppings or nutrient boosts (like seeds)
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! Let it rise in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze focaccia?
A: Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven to restore texture.
Q: What other herbs can I use?
A: Basil, oregano, sage, or even chives work beautifully.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes—replace the butter with vegan butter or just use more olive oil for brushing.